Eliminate Washer Odors: How To Properly Clean Your Top Load Washer | PartSelect.com

Regularly cleaning your top-load washer is a great way to help eliminate odors, and keep your washer looking new. It’s something you may not have considered doing, but it really does make a big difference. In this video, Steve will take you through the process of cleaning your washer step-by-step, so you can improve not only its performance, but the length of its life as well.
Some Supplies You May for Cleaning a Top-Load Washer:
✔️ Hot Water
✔️Baking Soda
✔️ Vinegar
✔️ Cleaning Brush
✔️ Putty Knife or Scraper
✔️ Commercial Spray Cleaner
✔️ Toothbrush
How to Access and Clean the Agitator (0:49)
How to Clean Beneath the Agitator (3:15)
How to Access and Clean The Tub Cover (3:39)
How to Clean the Inner Basket (5:25)
How to Prevent Odors from Re-Occurring and Maintain Freshness (6:13)
*****************
Find this video helpful? Hit the LIKE 👍 button, and don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to our channel for more help with your appliances!
Leave us a comment below and let us know what video YOU would like to see us do next or ask a question about your appliance!
More Washer-Specific Repair Videos can be found on the Washer Repair playlist on our KZbin Channel: • Washer Troubleshooting...
For more help diagnosing your Washer problems, or to find an instructional video that is specific to your model, visit our website at: www.partselect.com/?...
At PartSelect.com, we have thousands of replacement parts for a variety of household appliances. We specialize in OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts, so you can rest assured that your part will fit with your model appliance.
PartSelect.com is committed to providing you with high-quality parts, quickly and easily. Buy with confidence by learning about our Same-Day Shipping, Secure Shopping, and 30-Day Return Policy on our website.
www.partselect.com/Same-Day-S...
www.partselect.com/Thirty-Day...
www.partselect.com/Secure-Sho...
At PartSelect, we’re here to help at every stage of your repair. Our friendly Customer Service Representatives are happy to help with any questions you have about your repair, your appliance, or your replacement part. Visit our website to try our new LIVE CHAT feature or speak to one of our representatives over the phone at 1-888-260-4310.
Visit Us on Social Media!
/ partselect
/ partselect
www.pinterest.ca/partselect/

[@alanaoriley]

Why did I look this up…now I have to deep clean my laundry machine because the thought of it NOT being clean while it cleans my clothes is a huge NO for me 😭

[@primneaugajadhar7675]

That's a good thing right..but I feel you...what you don't know don't hurt 😕

[@kandypedoli31]

Alana O'Riley my thoughts exactly

[@carlal.9850]

Same….Ughhhh. OCD. It’s a good thing but, what a pain. 😩😩

[@TeaPourSixFour]

😅

[@nancynolte]

Same and I already have plenty of other things to do.

[@des10ed2b]

This was literally the best home repair/ appliance video I have ever watched. Thank you for breaking everything down so easily and not making everything twice as long as it needed to be. Short, sweet, factual, and to the point. Very appreciated!

[@debboyea9567]

I agree! I feel confident I could do this!.

[@lindyarcher3807]

My washer is only a few years old. It is nasty. I do not want to put my arm in it.

[@laurettejullien9837]

I agree!!

[@CattyMcMeow]

My god, I didn't even know this was necessary. Never ever was taught or told to do it by anyone, ever. I need to do this this weekend, my washing machine came with my apartment. I can only imagine how nasty it's gotten over the years with all of those tenants. Yikes.

[@julianimeth6264]

THANK YOU! I am having a baby due in a few weeks, my washer smelt horrible. I just finished cleaning and scrubbing it thanks to your video. I feel much more at ease to wash clothes now.

[@sirwalksoftly]

How does it smell now?

[@amberrose3427]

Thank you that was easily explained. For goodness sake though I hope mine does not look like that one, definitely will gag while cleaning if it is😳

[@bethdavis7812]

I was told years ago to always water down the fabric softener so when I get a new bottle I pour half of it into the old bottle and fill each one the rest of the way with water and shake. I find it does the job with using the same amount of this mixture. I do not use this on my towels but do fill the softener with plain water to help rinse it out and getting gummed up. I also use bleach or oxy clean in the last load I do each time I do multiple loads and I have never had a smell with my washer. Most people are using too much laundry soap, I use half a cap for a full load with good results. A laundry repair man gave me these tips. The present one is 12 years old and still doing a good job.

[@SuperMoofie]

If you use a good laundry detergent you don't need fabric softener. It's just a gimmickdesigned to make more money for the manufacturers. It also ruins washing machines. I use a baking soda based washing powder (Ecostore) here in NZ, and the clothes are always as they should be when washed, soft and very clean. I use sanitiser in the fabric softener dispenser, but never fabric softener, most of which have overpowering fragrances, that just stink.

[@Ewat69]

fabric softener is a form of micro waxing to make things not be as frictional on your skin. it doesn't soften anything. actually if you want to actually soften your clothes, use a small amount of vinegar

[@taraan3066]

This man out here cleaning a washer with his literal bare hands. I’m wearing gloves just to open my attic door.

[@marcelade8a]

Best video in KZbin on how to clean a top load washing machine with very clear and simple instructions. Thank you very much! 🙏

[@felicityhall1595]

I just wanted to know how to clean the fabric softener dispenser. I had no idea how filthy a washing machine could actually get and now I want to disassemble the whole thing. But thanks to your video I actually think I could manage to do it.

[@puddytat1964]

Thank you! Your video is just what I was looking for to help me handle maintenance on my top load washing machine. Your video and the manual are a recipe for success.

[@carlagutierrez707]

Thank you for such a good demonstration on how and what can be removed to clean.

[@Furens]

Perfect video, no nonsense and logically laid out

[@brittanymiller3519]

Thank you so much for this video! I was just given an older washer for my new home and it desperately needs to be cleaned and this video will make my job so much easier!!

[@msdixie1972]

Blessed!!! The new ones are junk! 😎

[@tennillej9601]

Aww lucky! I'd love an older one

[@contradance3570]

I found a trick for cleaning out the hard to clean place on the lid by the hinge, it always resoils quickly on mine. Use a mid-quality paint brush, as the fine bristles really make it possible to more easily get down into those cracks, much better than the old toothbrush.

[@partselect]

Great tip!

[@alnettles987]

Or you could use a baby bottle washer

[@Daniela-2208]

Thanks to you, I’ll be up til 3am deep cleaning and steam cleaning my washer lol. I know I’ll feel a lot better afterwards but I cannot go to bed now thinking about the dirt in there. Time to check the drain hose next 🤦🏻‍♀️

[@shannajohnson9754]

THANK YOU SOOOO MUCH! You are an amazing teacher. I will one hundred percent use your videos a lot in the future. Ty ty ty

[@CynthiaLPerez]

Yes! Thank you for actually explaining how and why you were lifting parts aside from various other people making videos with words just popping up to music.

[@combatarms175]

Great video. Excellent advice and demonstration. Thanks

[@laceymarie6419]

Getting first top loader Saturday. Thanks for the tips 🙂

[@FUN2002FUN]

Excellent, concise video. Thank you!

[@samuelwilliams4614]

Thank you sooo much!! I thought I was going crazy smelling these odors from my washer. Followed you step-by-step and immediately noticed an improvement.!!!

[@msdixie1972]

Method makes an incredible-smelling washer cleaning spray.

[@cosmicallyderived]

Makes a big difference, clothes will come out smelling fresher. All that old gunk and buildup transfers odors when you wash.

[@legacyjoyofficial]

Wow, this was wonderfully done. Thank you for breaking it down and explaining it so well and getting straight to the point!

[@partselect]

Glad it was helpful for you!

[@nani7902]

Thank you!! This was so helpful!!

[@johnhaase1358]

These how to videos are very informative, straightforward, and pleasantly absent of all the loud and obnoxious music most videos have on- to try to show you how cool the hosts are... Thanks!!!

[@partselect]

Glad you like them! Thanks for watching!

[@sharonlatour6230]

Thank you so much Steve for the great video, and tutorial!

[@maz4002]

Another thing he didn’t mention, if you have a sulfur (rotten egg) smell when running your washer and you don’t have well water, you may need a new anode for your hot water heater and water heater be flushed.

[@garethhowarddavies1689]

My stinky machine is getting this treatment right now! Thank you for such a clear and concise video.

[@deniselee1918]

Good video but one VERY IMPORTANT problem you don't show is how to losses the bolt at the bottom I m of the long agitator. How do I reach that bolt can't do anything unless that problem is resolved.

[@tomgrobelny]

I realize this reply is a year late, but for anyone else wondering, you can use an extension or combination of multiple extensions on your ratchet.

[@swthaverinlass]

THANK YOU!! the washer in my new apartment is so caked with old detergent and gunk! Mainly in the tub cover(that i can see) The smell is just ugh! Now I know how to actually get to it to clean it🤗🤗

[@arianademaris3132]

Vsz hug

[@ItsAshaMac]

Same 😩

[@jillmasters8491]

Thank you so much. This is fantastic. So clear and concise. Very appreciated.

[@Ejoy330]

I love these videos. Thanks for posting!

[@TammySmith300]

Thank you! That was exactly the information I needed!

[@Cindy-ek7fs]

Very thorough tutorial.. I thank you so much, it much appreciated!!!!!!

[@marin9207]

Excellent demonstration. Thanks😊

[@partselect]

You are welcome!

[@mrskrobinson1986]

Thanks for the video!

[@jeaninemorgan9118]

Thank you. You are a great teacher

[@oxstrangelyrandomxo]

What tool did you folks use to unbolt the agitator to the tub?

[@GAI3E_]

A general nut bolt remover with a extension attachment to reach down the agitator.

[@cynthiambelete2694]

Yeah,I was wondering about that too

[@katherinebrady810]

Thank You!!!! Looks so Easy to do!!!

[@jersgmc]

Good video, thanks.

[@rachelbee7921]

Thank you for your wisdom and thoroughness. ❤👍🏽

[@rceval]

This video was incredibly educational and horrifying. Thank you for showing me what lurks beneath

[@hackbattle4283]

It's unbelievable have filthy, something meant to clean, can get.

[@simsim5919]

Well how did you remove the bolt? What tool?

[@tanyaduffy4632]

Good video thanks so much

[@ThatBronxgirl7]

OMGosh now I don't want to wash my clothes until I've scrubbed the washing machine.

[@jeffcarbello9115]

Thanks Maytag Atlantis 20+ going strong now but needed this TLC cleaning.

[@Steven-ji7sc]

Great video. Thank you

[@gregorypiercesr.794]

Great video!

[@Yourenotreal7]

To the point.. thank you!🤗

[@andyhamilton2202]

Thank you!!

[@noladronelife_6574]

Thank you

[@alicea5]

2:23, what to use to remove the agitator? I think I do not have the tools.

[@Penny-bt4gc]

Yikes, I’m afraid to look that deep into my washer. I’ve cleaned the softener dispenser a few times and it was gross.

[@rougesunset]

I appreciate you demonstrating on an actually dirty washing machine! I know what I can expect when I clean mine 😁

[@future_phonk]

That is one of the nastiest washer machine I've seen! Hopefully more people maintain there washer with this knowledge!

[@jessmason6574]

Best video in details on a step to step of how to DIY. Looks easier to watch then DIY 🤔 😂

[@alnettles987]

I just opened my washing machine and I almost cried, literally and I'm 34! I accidentally threw a black sweater in with my regular colored clothes and everything is covered (COVERED) in black linties aka (little black devil balls)!!!! Ugh. So I'm getting my husband to help me with this entire routine, if possible for our old timer of a washing machine!!!! Please Al help my do this and I'll love you forever and ever!

[@kellyr.1817]

How am I watching this while eating?...lol! This is very informative, thank you for this video and making it easy to understand. I'm going to go clean my washer machine now 👍😁

[@teem9010]

oh god! now i have to take my washer apart

[@SaculHsoj]

Wait how did you get the bolt at the bottom of the agitator loosened?

[@sweetbabysmelb]

Came here looking for this comment, I’m able to actually reach the bolt using a tool that looks like a screwdriver and a ratchet attachment but I’m not strong enough to loosen it!

[@d.m.2934]

Great and informational video.

[@blankafuzvolgyi5238]

Any tips for how to remove the bolt thing in order to be able to remove the adjutator? Ours is really packed in there and we couldn’t even remove it with a drill on reverse. This washer came with the house we just bought (we haven’t moved in yet) so if we can’t clean it out we’re just going to get a new set but would like to try this first.

[@aia2473]

I wish there was a video that shows the bolt and how they remove it 🙏🏻

[@morganschwartz7679]

Could anyone tell me how to remove the bolt on the agitator?

[@MagooManor]

I know this is a year old but i came here looking for the same comment, hoping for an answer. He literally SKIPPED that part and its so frustrating. Guess we just need to google our make and model number to find the manuals or videos on it.

[@stephencaterio9611]

well done

[@pamcaruso3853]

I would never be able to take it apart or get it back together. My husband would be mad!!

[@danaelmendorf3981]

Totally the best video out there. Followed the steps and yuck, So much gunk. Gotta tell everyone I know. They will think I’ve lost my mind but seriously…

[@partselect]

Thanks for watching Dana!

[@buddyholly4672]

Great video except i wish it was explained how to open the top of the washer.

[@amandafernandez5126]

He has another video for that. It helped me.

[@neil340]

"Now that we removed the bolt"... How!!! Show!!!

[@wazabe20011]

Damn, i suppose if you make this your seasonal routine, once before summer and once before winter it'll just be one of those normal things to do... but imagine those hand me down machines you've had for 10 years lol ouff good luck

[@mdaley4390]

What about the outside of the tub? Does that ever get dirty and build up junk?

[@thelastjohnwayne]

Yeah But Where are my lost socks?

[@reanna1oman812]

Thats hysterical

[@reanna1oman812]

Thats hysterical

[@MurF-A-ZoiD]

Funk all that! If my Washer that dirty. Wait for it... .. Time for a New funking Washer.

[@latonparker3645]

So I am not alone....had to do this today🤬🤯🤮

[@bethanygreen2718]

Where's the filter on the newer top loading machines?? Can't find mine or instructions online anywhere..send help! 😅

[@jessicaknutson4502]

Thank you - I bought a house that used to be rented out and it came with a machine... But I can't afford to buy a new one right now. I accidentally pulled the detergent cap off last night and saw how disgusting it was.... I wonder if there's any way to clean inside that cap better. Mine looks exactly like the one in this video... But I can see flaky, scaly build up inside

[@kamicrum4408]

For over 25 years thus housewife, dies a bleach load last and once a week .i use a large cycle with a gallon if white vinegar in the tub, my machine stays looking nice & clean. When dobe .i alwsys leave the door open. My children, now adults were bever aloud to play in the kaubdry room. Even with front loading washers I have never gad an iff or funky smell in them!

[@Kami43644]

How do you remove the bolt holding down the agitator ?

[@joralemonvirgincreche]

I just had an old polyester blanket completely dissolve in my washer so spent the afternoon picking out handfuls of fluff. And the sink it empties into is also now lined with fluff. Should I be worried about filter(s) or hoses getting clogged? Should I run a small water-only rinse now?

[@meganrasey4377]

How do you loosen that bolt way down at the bottom?

[@daArt708]

I came here to find out how to remove my fabric softener dispenser and to see how to use it cause it has this funnel like cup in it and it always sat crooked...but I did not or never thought the washer was this nasty...thank you now my husband has an add on to his HoneyDoList😉

[@Ac.117]

Now quick question where would the filter be

[@d.dragonfly1970]

He didnt check the outside of the drum for build up. This can also cause odor.

[@stfu2334]

Here comes the negtive mind

[@marcia0908]

How do you loosen the bolt?

[@partselect]

You will definitely need an extention added to your socket and ratchet wrench to reach that bolt I use a 12inch extention or two 6 inch combined.

[@horatiobeaker]

Baking soda and citric acid safely works even better.

[@MentalPistol]

Maybe you can help. I have an oldish kenmore top loader. Theres sticky lint packets on the clothes after washing. I remove the agitiator nut with hopes that theres a filter under it, but it cant come off, no matter who tries to pull it up. Im convinced that its not meant to come off. Obviosuly something needs cleaning in the washer. Any recommendations?

[@bethjionzo5699]

I would never be able to figure that out

[@ragv2310]

Did they wash a dog in this washer?

[@mungbean345]

Or horse blankets, was my thought! 😬

[@Penny-bt4gc]

Lol. I noticed a lot of hair too.

[@gigiwoodlawn2142]

Apparently don't use fabric softener. Causes some havoc!!

[@somebunny2love]

Curious, is there businesses that will do all that for you?

[@heidifischerroy4372]

my question also, I am not mechanicly inclined and can think of a lot of other chores to do

[@JeremoBrown]

the front load washing machines are worse they get mold all in the rubber seal and you have to rip them out of throw it away

[@DADoESofTX]

There's as much smutz accumulation on the *underside* of the inner basket as there is around the top of it, and typically on the bottom of the outer tub. Majority of this smutz accumulation is caused by cold-water washing and insufficient detergent dosage to handle the water conditions and soil level ... akin to the scum-line on a sink from dirty/greasy dishwater left to sit overnight.

[@msdixie1972]

Yukkitty yuk

[@aneciawatson4832]

@@msdixie1972 IKR 🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@SuperMoofie]

Because cold water doesn't wash clothes, it just ladens them with detergent build-up and stinky overpowering fragrance to make you think they're clean, and builds up crap in the machine. A lot of people don't measure they're detergent either, it just gets poured straight in, :[

[@mariawoods2469]

How do you remove bed sheets from underneath the agitator?

[@VeronicaGonzalez-hj3qo]

My hand doesn't fit in the agitator how do I remove it?

[@anthonybarnes1286]

How do you pop up the top panel with the door on it

[@bladerunner9298]

Should screw on the top back and may have 4 on each corner.

[@mikelisacarb]

2:15 ...... once you remove that bolt - How does he get down in that long tube?

[@austrebertaperalta]

No arranca para lavar

[@phaleshiamccauley7180]

Yes now i have to try to clean this darn washing machine😮 ugggghhh

[@jessmason6574]

Now I feel the need to have to deep clean my washer 😢.

[@tamaraconnor3395]

has anyone have a error code come up on their washer after cleaning it. I keep getting that when i go to wash a load of clothes saying i need to wash it again?

[@Tryintobemi]

What kind of tool do I use to unscrew the agitator?! My hand won't fit in there.

[@Deshelton10]

I would assume a ratchet, socket (size of the bolt), and a long extension so that you can reach the bottom part of the agitator.

[@princesvicencio6098]

@@Deshelton10 I removed the fabric softner cap and my instant reaction was to pour hot water down the agitator. How do I get the water out of there??

[@Deshelton10]

@@princesvicencio6098 I'd probably use a Shop Vac if you had one. Just make sure to take the paper filter out before. Or you can try to use tools to take the agitator off and the water should come out. If you can't do either of those, maybe try and soak the water up with a towel or some type of cloth. Does it have a hole you can fit your hand in or is it a small hole?

[@jennavicatorres]

Is that the reason clothes could be getting stained?

[@allyjessie9488]

Yes.. I actually did my own how to video on a maytag. It's the detergent, it's so concentrated now that it gunks up underneath the agitator and my brand new white clothes had black streaks everywhere... The detergent thickens then proceeds to collect other grime over time. My washer is a top loader but the agitator is on the bottom